Kuala Lumpur, 3rd August 2007: Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister, Datuk Seri Utama Dr Rais Yatim is animated and articulate. He is also a true patron of the arts, possessing an impressive knowledge of paintings and its history. I am happy to note that he is also a keen amateur photographer. Behind him, is a painting by artist Wong Seng Tong, part of an exhibition by 67 artists at the Islamic Arts Museum. The Merdeka 50: A Celebration of Malaysian Art exhibition -- which runs from 2nd August to 16th September -- was launched yesterday.